Intro: The weekend brings the opening of the North End City Market, Foghat and Nazareth and several Mother’s Day celebrations, along with fundraisers, live music and more to the Rockford area.
Grand Opening: Amazin Glazin
What: There will be specials and giveaways for the grand opening weekend.
When: 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 8 and May 9
Where: Amazin Glazin, 323 W. Jefferson St., Rockford
Exhibits of Artists who Tattoo
What: Tattoo artists make beautiful, permanent designs on your body. But tattoo artists are artists first. What else do they make when they’re not at work? What influences them as artists? How did a combination of traditional old tattoo styles juxtapose with contemporary art and popular culture to form the vibrant, innovative tattoos we see today? This show features some of the best artists who do tattoos in our area. Come meet them, hear about their careers and influences and see some really cool art. Everyone welcome. Admission is free.
When: 6-8 p.m. May 8
Where: 327 Art Collective, 317 Market St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Open Mic Night
What: Open Mic Night is back with hosts King Moosa and Ruth Jackson. Enjoy everything from poetry to song. The first 20 to sign up will get a five-minute set to perform. Space is limited; arrive early for a seat and refreshments.
When: 6-8 p.m. May 8 (doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Where: Inscape Collective, 201 Seventh St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Eliminate Racism 815 film series
What: This monthly film series explores social justice, equity and community issues through powerful documentaries and discussions. After the screening, join in conversation and reflection about the topics presented. The film May 8 is The Negotiator: Billy Caldwell.
When: 6-9 p.m. May 8
Where: Baha’i Center of Rockford, 1650 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Spring Ice Show
What: Rockford Park District’s Figure Skating Department will host its annual spring ice show featuring 100 local skaters of all levels and from age four through adult in group, solo, specialty and synchronized musical performances, including Rockford Park District’s Arctic Edge Synchro teams and 815 Ice Theatre team.
When: 6 p.m. May 8; 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. May 9
Where: Carlson Ice Arena, 4150 N. Perryville Road, Loves Park
Cost: $10; free for children age 5 and younger; $20 for admission for all three shows
Tranquility Walk
What: This is the last twilight Tranquility Walk of the 2025 – 2026 season. Focus on and celebrate the earth’s “blood flow” – the rivers and streams that bring life. Wear footwear suitable for trail walking and dress appropriately for whatever the weather might be. Bring a walking stick or poles if you have them. All ages are welcome with the understanding that this is a silent, meditative experience. Because this is an after-hours program and the arboretum will be closed to the general public, plan to arrive a few minutes early. (The gates will close promptly at 6:30 p.m.)
When: 6:30-8:15 p.m. May 8
Where: Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $10; $5 for members
An Evening with Ward Davis
What: Ward Davis is an acclaimed Americana musician and songwriter known for his soulful voice, storytelling and authentic songwriting. Hailing from Monticello, Ark., Davis combines traditional country roots with a modern edge, creating music that resonates with both honky-tonk purists and contemporary audiences. He gained recognition as a songwriter, penning tracks for country icons like Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard and Trace Adkins. His solo career took off with the release of his debut album in 2015. Ward will perform a solo show, with guest opener, Myron Elkins.
When: 8 p.m. May 8
Where: Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $37-$53
North End City Market
What: The farmer-focused market opens for the season May 9 with fresh, seasonal produce; baked goods; handmade items and more. Shop local, support regional farmers and enjoy a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere Saturday mornings. SNAP/Link benefits are accepted.
When: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. May 9
Where: southeast corner of Auburn and Main Streets, Rockford
Cost: Free admission
America 250 Planting Day
What: Volunteers are needed for the eighth annual planting of thousands of flowers at Veterans Memorial Circle bordering the Main/Auburn roundabout. The event will be held rain or shine. There are no assigned shifts. There’s no formal registration in advance. Simply show up and work as long as you can. Sign in at the green tent in front of Greenwood Cemetery. Park at the cemetery near the Auburn Street entrance or on side streets on the NE, SE and SW quadrants of the roundabout. After 1 p.m., when North End City Market has closed, the city parking lot on the SE side of the roundabout will be available for parking.
When: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. May 9
Where: Main and Auburn Streets roundabout/Veterans Memorial Circle, Rockford
Cost: Free
SHS Spring Cleanup Day
What: Support the building and grounds committee by helping on Spring Clean Up Day. Bring a pair of work gloves if you have them. Work outside at both the Nordic Cultural Center and Erlander Home Museum. Fika will be provided.
When: 9 a.m. – noon May 9
Where: Swedish Historical Society, 404 S. Third St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Bloomfest
What: This annual tradition brings together local artisans, intuitive and energetic practitioners, musicians, food vendors, families and friends. The festival includes an artisan market with locally-made goods; an annuals, perennials and veggie starts plant sale; wellness resources; free Yoga and meditation; live music; food and beverage trucks; kids’ crafts and activities and a community art project.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. May 9
Where: Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, Rockford
Paddle Sport Demo Day
What: Test paddle kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards under the watchful eye of staff in short 10-15 minute segments and learn what fits you best. You will get some paddling tips, too.
When: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. May 9
Where: Rocktown Adventures, 313 N. Madison St., Rockford
Cost: $20
Camp Fuller Civil War Day
What: In this one-day public history event, Midway’s historic village will be transformed into the Civil War Era with visitors learning about Rockford’s 1862 Civil War training camp for Illinois recruits. Meet famous people: President Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, General U. S. Grant and many others. Experience being a soldier, including marching and drilling. Visit the 1850s barn to learn about the Underground Railroad. Experience period school lessons in a one-room schoolhouse. Learn about Civil War doctors and medicine and see other living history stations throughout the village. This is a rain-or-shine event. No pets are allowed, however, service animals are permitted.
When: 10 a.m. May 9
Where: Midway Village, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Cost: $15; $12 for ages 5-12 and seniors age 62 and older; free for children age 4 and younger and museum members
Mother’s Day Planting Event
What: Kids (or adults) will create a teacup succulent planter as a handmade Mother’s Day gift. Choose a vintage-style teacup, plant a succulent and add personal touches to make it extra special. No reservations are needed but supplies are limited. Stop in anytime between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. May 9
Where: The Pickin Chicks, 6550 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: $5 per planter
Saturday before Mother’s Day event
What: Spend the day celebrating moms with a full lineup of experiences, shopping and treats. Highlights of the event include Iced Coffee Bar by Meg’s; Mom-mosa Bar by Lino’s; Italian Sandwiches by Mola; candle making workshop by Craft + Foster (ticketed); Permanent Jewelry by Linkt; fresh bouquets by Emerald Moon Floral; handmade gelato by Gelato Joe’s; festive treats by Dolce Desserts; Mother’s Day card-making + crafts by Joie; photo wall moments; and a bunce house. Get a free mini Craft + Foster candle with purchase while supplies last. Lino’s will also have their famous annual prime rib special.
When: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. May 9
Where: Mercato by Lino’s, 8400 E. Riverside Blvd., Loves Park
Mother’s Day Celebration
What: Kids will create a custom bouquet for mom while you enjoy coffee, cookies and donuts. There will also be a photo backdrop to capture special moments with your little ones.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 9
Where: Kelley Meyers Park, 12595 Wilmington Close, Roscoe
Cost: Free, while supplies last
Bike Blessing and Hot Dog Lunch
What: Get your bike blessed for riding season as the Christian Motorcyclists Association — Steel Witness Chapter will be here from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., offering blessings for riders and their bikes. In this time-honored tradition, a priest or pastor prays for riders, asking for protection and safe travels. Each blessing is personal, offering both spiritual support and peace of mind for the road ahead. Members of the CMA – Steel Witness Chapter will be grilling up hot dogs out front, served with chips and your choice of soda or bottled water from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. or until they are gone. Bike blessings and lunch are free, but donations are welcome to support CMA’s ministry.
When: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. May 9
Where: Kegel Harley-Davidson, 7125, Harrison Ave., Rockford
Cost: Free; donations welcomed
Rockford Fire Mini-Putt Crawl
What: Putt your way through downtown Rockford in the fourth annual Rockford Firefighters Local 413 Mini-Putt Crawl. Compete in this family-friendly event and help raise money for Project Fire Buddies, supporting children battling serious illnesses by pairing them with firefighters who provide encouragement, friendship and unforgettable experiences. Raffle tickets and t-shirts are available for purchase.
When: 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. May 9
Where: downtown Rockford; check-in is at District Bar & Grill, 205 W. State St., Rockford
Cost: $25; $80 for a four-some
Plant Giveaway
What: As part of Winnebago Community Gardens’ mission to lower barriers and make gardening more accessible, members will be giving away 450 of tomato, pepper, vegetable, herb and flower seedlings.
When: Noon May 9
Where: Rooted, 1408 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Flower Fest & Kids Creative Market
What: Dig into hands-on flower science, get crafty with creative projects, shop from kid vendors and add your touch to a community art project.
When: 1-4 p.m. May 9
Where: Tinker Swiss Cottage & Gardens, 411 Kent St., Rockford
Mom and Me Board Painting
What: Board paint with your mom. There are 20 different design options from which to choose. This event is for moms and their kids ages 3 and older. Spaces are limited and must be prepaid.
When: 1 p.m. May 9
Where: Coach’s Corner, 622 S. State St., Belvidere
Cost: $30 for two boards
The Mother’s Day Jam
What: From the ashes of the early 80s era Robin Banks band comes the new four-piece rock and roll band Monkeymind. Legendary hard rock band RIPT will also perform. Kicking off the afternoon’s concert event is The Rock and Roll institute, dynamic youth bands ready to prove the future of rock is now. From classic anthems to tomorrow’s hits, this is an unforgettable experience for every rock fan.
When: 2 p.m. May 9
Where: Sinnissippi Music Shell, 1643 Arlington Ave., Rockford
Science of the Seasons Hike
What: Participate in community-driven science. Learn about seasonal wildlife and plant monitoring. The hike is for ages 12 and older. Register on the website.
When: 2-3:30 p.m. May 9
Where: Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford
Cost: Free
Margaritas on the Mall
What: Get ready for a brand-new experience at Edgebrook with an afternoon of margarita tastings, live music and shopping. Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with that special someone while enjoying exclusive tastings inside your favorite shops. Guests must be 21 or older to buy tickets to this event. Your ticket automatically enters you to win door prizes including a $250 gift certificate to the Laser Center at Edgebrook Dermatology or a complimentary Diamond Glow Facial ($200 value). Drinks are provided by presenting sponsor, Lucha Cantina. Register at the storefront behind Van Laars Farm Market & Bake Shop, show your ID, receive your wristband, then start sipping and strolling.
When: 3-6 p.m. May 9 (registration starts at 2:30 p.m.)
Where: Edgebrook Center, 1639 N. Alpine Road, Rockford
Cost: $20
Knock Out Parkinson’s Inc. Fundraiser
What: The Mystery Dates, Some Friends of Mine and Rascal’s bring a night of music and camaraderie to raise funds for this organization.
When: 6 p.m. – midnight May 9
Where: Rascals, 5223 Torque Drive, Loves Park
Rockford Symphony Orchestra: America 250
What: The RSO season concludes with a celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States, showcasing American music and its heritage. The evening begins with Jessie Montgomery’s “A Hymn for Everyone,” and moves on to Leonard Bernstein’s “Symphony No. 1 Jeremiah.” Jeff Midkiff’s Mandolin Concerto “From the Blue Ridge,” inspired by Appalachian traditions, brings the soul of bluegrass to the concert hall. To celebrate the innovator of the “American sound,” the concert closes with two movements of Aaron Copland’s tribute to the American West, Rodeo.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 9
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $46-$108
Foghat + Nazareth
What: After 55 years, Foghat is still going. Last year, they celebrated 50 years of “Slow Ride,” the timeless anthem that put them on the global map. The band has earned eight Gold records, one Platinum, one Double Platinum, and has a new #1 Blues album. Nazareth rose from playing the pubs, clubs and dance halls of their native Scotland to become one of the most successful rock bands in the world. Their hits include “Bad Bad Boy,” “Dream On,” “Hair Of The Dog” and “Love Hurts.” Guests must be at least 21 to attend the show. There is no smoking. This is a general admission, standing room only show.
When: 8 p.m. May 9 (doors open at 7 p.m.)
Where: Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $49-$97
Lonely Teenage Cassette Release Show
What: Come to the Lonely Teenage Cassette Release Show with special guests, The Invisible Five and Mary Wells. Lonely Teenage is an ambient/drone project based in Rockford. The duo is comprised of longtime friends C. Wicklund (synthesizers) and L. Flowers (lap steel/guitar), who began creating music together in the summer of 2025. They blend the desolate sounds of delta blues with a slow, haunting, minimalist style, which culminated in their debut album, “The Earth Was Blue, But There Was No God.”
When: 8 p.m. May 9
Where: Music Box, 218 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $15.08
Mother’s Day Garden Celebration
What: Celebrate moms of all kinds with live acoustic music by Chris Lewis Music, offerings from Mama’s Feel Good Food Truck for purchase and a stroll around the gardens and grounds at Klehm. There will be a Limited Mother’s Package available for purchase that includes a Mason jar floral arrangement, a sweet treat and family portraits with Nikki Vorgic Photography.
When: Noon – 3 p.m. May 10
Where: Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $12; $10 for students; free for ages 3 and younger or members
Firehouse Pub Cruise Night
What: Sunday Cruise Nites will run from May 10 through September featuring food and drink specials, giveaways and rock ‘n’ roll music.
When: 4 p.m. May 10
Where: Firehouse Pub, 10670 Main St., Roscoe
Coming next week
Disability Community Resource Fair
What: Nearly 40 agencies will be on site providing information and resources about education, employment, independent living, health and wellness, and Social and community opportunities. An Instant Language Assistant Device (which accommodates up to 400 languages and dialects) will be available to help families with translation needs. Complete a short survey to get a free basket raffle ticket. Platinum Grill will have their food truck outside.
When: 4-6 p.m. May 12
Where: Loves Park City Hall, 100 Heart Blvd., Loves Park
Cost: Free
Building Bridges to Understanding
What: Join NAMI Northern Illinois for the fourth annual Building Bridges event with Nora McInerny, podcast host and bestselling author. Nora dives into tough topics like death, loss, illness, trauma and mental health, all with a touch of humor and warmth. Here, you’re always enough and all your feeling are welcome. Connect with a community that values real talk. Refreshments will be offered during the fair.
When: 4-8 p.m. May 14
Where: Embassy Suites, 416 S. Main St., Rockford
Cost: Free
Dinner on the Dock
What: Dinner on the Dock is a signature summer series set along Rockford’s scenic waterfront. This weekly experience pairs live music with a relaxed, open-air dining atmosphere. The band May 14 is Mana Kintorso.
When: 5-10 p.m. May 14
Where: Prairie Street Brewhouse, 200 Prairie St., Rockford
Cost: Free admission
Miro Wine Dinner
What: Enjoy six courses of carefully crafted dishes and six thoughtfully paired wines with award-winning winemaker Miro Tcholakov.
When: 5:30 p.m. May 14
Where: Abreo, 515 E. State St., Rockford
Cost: $95
Menopause the Musical 2
What: The sequel to the smash-hit Menopause The Musical is here set five years after their chance encounter in a department store. Set sail with these beloved ladies for more high jinks on the high seas. “Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through The Change” takes a heartfelt look at the joys of menopause and friendship plus hot flashes, mood swings and memory lapses. Take a trip of self-discovery, backed by a new soundtrack of toe-tapping parodied hits from the 70s, 80s and 90s. For these four ladies, menopause was not the end, but the beginning of a beautiful friendship where love conquers all, and friendships never fail.
When: 7:30 p.m. May 14
Where: Coronado Performing Arts Center, 314 N. Main St., Rockford
Cost: $49-$72
Kathi Edwards is a freelance contributor to the Rockford Register Star.
This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Mother’s Day events among 30 things to do in the Rockford area
Reporting by Kathi Edwards, Special to the Rockford Register Star / Rockford Register Star
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